John Cena and Cody Rhodes will face each other in a highly anticipated match at WWE SummerSlam, now officially declared a street fight under a surprising new stipulation. This follows Cena’s earlier victory over Rhodes, which ended Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship reign at WrestleMania 41.
Rhodes, having earned another title opportunity by winning the King of the Ring tournament, was scheduled to formalize the match contract with Cena during a recent episode of SmackDown. However, events took an unexpected turn when Cena made a shocking announcement.
Unexpected Announcement Alters Expectations for SummerSlam
Upon arriving at the ring to sign the contract, Cena revealed he would not be competing at SummerSlam. He cited physical and mental exhaustion and mentioned ongoing commitments, including filming a Netflix movie. Cena explained that he had communicated his situation with WWE executives, who understood the necessity of his absence.
The 48-year-old champion emphasized that skipping SummerSlam would be “best for business” and promised Rhodes a rematch at another time. This announcement left fans and Rhodes visibly stunned and frustrated.
Emotions Explode into a Brutal Confrontation
Following Cena’s exit, an enraged Cody Rhodes pursued him and launched an attack on the Undisputed WWE Champion. Their altercation spilled back into the ring, where Rhodes intensified the fight by slamming Cena through a table and executing a high-flying splash from the top rope.
Taking control, Rhodes forced Cena to sign the contract, officially turning their SummerSlam match into a street fight, signaling a more physical and unforgiving battle ahead.
Context and Potential Impact on SummerSlam
This development adds a darker, more intense dimension to the John Cena Cody Rhodes SummerSlam showdown, increasing anticipation for the event in New Jersey. The street fight stipulation implies fewer rules and a greater potential for violence, raising stakes for both competitors and fans alike.
Given Cena’s announcement and the ensuing chaos, questions remain about his physical readiness and how the match‘s brutal nature will play out in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Rhodes appears determined to seize this moment to reclaim his title and prove his resilience.
Additional Noteworthy WWE Developments
Beyond this headline bout, WWE is reportedly planning a steel cage match at SummerSlam, highlighting the event’s growing intensity. Other updates include a WWE legend confirming his retirement following the 2021 Royal Rumble and revelations about an AEW star’s unexpected return to professional wrestling.
These storylines contribute to an increasingly unpredictable WWE landscape as the company prepares for one of its biggest annual shows.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is a yearly wrestling event organized by WWE, the largest wrestling entertainment company. First held in 1988, it’s called “The Biggest Party of the Summer.” It’s considered WWE’s second biggest event, right after WrestleMania.
